Grammy award-winning reggae musician and actor Jimmy Cliff is dead at age 81. Cliff passed away after suffering a seizure following a bout with pneumonia, according to his wife, Latifa Chambers, in an Instagram post. His decades-long career as a pioneering and award-winning musician included hits such as “Many Rivers to Cross” and “You Can Get It If You Really Want.”
Additionally, Cliff was an actor who starred in the 1972 movie, “The Harder They Come,” about a struggling Jamaican musician. This breakthrough role catapulted him to stardom. He was also a mentor and inspiration to younger reggae musicians, including Peter Tosh and Bob Marley.
Jimmy Cliff’s Early Career and Breakthrough
Jimmy Cliff, birth name James Chambers, was born on July 30, 1944, in the Somerton district of St. James Parish, Jamaica. When he was a preteen, Jimmy moved to Kingston to become a musician. He disguised his youthful voice into a huskier sound that complemented the R&B and ska songs he was singing. Cliff’s first hit was “Hurricane Hattie in 1962. He subsequently moved to England, where he scored with hits like “Wonderful World Beautiful People,” “Vietnam,” and a cover of Cat Stevens hit “Wild World.”
In response to the racism he experienced in England, he wrote the song “Many Rivers to Come,” which remains a reggae anthem. Shortly after that, he starred in the low-budget film “The Harder They Come.” After the film’s release, Mr. Cliff was the world’s premier reggae musician, but he was soon overshadowed by a younger artist, Bob Marley. Jimmy helped Marley secure his first recording session, and a star was born.
Later Hits and Career Honors
Jimmy went on to win two Grammys (seven nominations total) for 1986’s “Cliff Hanger” (best reggae recording) and 2013’s best reggae album, “Rebirth.” Jimmy continued to record music and perform live throughout his career and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.
Cliff’s music also inspired others. The Sandinistas in Nicaragua used “You Can Get it If You Really Want” as a campaign theme, and Bruce Springsteen recorded his live cover “Trapped,” which was featured on 1985’s “We Are the World” album. Others performing his songs included Cher, John Lennon, and UB40.
Tribute and Survivors
In her announcement of Mr. Cliff’s death, his wife Latifa said.
“I am thankful for Jimmy’s family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who have shared his journey with him,” she continued. “To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes. See you, and we see you, Legend.”
Jimmy Cliff is survived by his wife, Latifa; daughters, Nabiyah Be (Sonia Gomes) and Lilty; and son, Aken.
